The judge relents: 'Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.' The judge's motive is purely selfish: 'because this widow troubleth me' (διά γε τὸ παρέχειν μοι κόπον τὴν χήραν ταύτην, dia ge to parechein moi kopon tēn chēran tautēn, because this widow causes me trouble). The phrase 'lest by her continual coming' (ἵνα μὴ εἰς τέλος ἐρχομένη, hina mē eis telos erchomenē, lest coming continually) she 'weary me' (ὑπωπιάζῃ με, hypōpiazē me, literally 'strike me under the eye,' metaphorically 'wear me out'). He grants justice not from righteousness but exhaustion. If even selfish weariness moves an unjust judge, how much more does the Father's love move Him to answer His children's persistent prayers?
Historical Context
The judge's capitulation demonstrates that persistence works even on the worst possible authority figure. His motivation—avoiding annoyance—contrasts sharply with God's motivation: love, compassion, justice, and covenant faithfulness. The point isn't that we must wear God down or overcome His reluctance. God doesn't need persuading to care about His children. Rather, persistence demonstrates faith, develops character, and aligns our wills with God's purposes. Delayed answers aren't divine indifference but opportunities to deepen dependence and trust. The parable teaches that if even unjust judges eventually respond to persistence, believers can confidently persist in prayer knowing their perfectly just and loving Father will answer in His perfect timing.
Questions for Reflection
How does the judge's selfish motivation contrast with God's loving motivation to answer prayer?
What purposes might God have for delaying answers to prayer?
How does persistence in prayer develop faith, character, and spiritual maturity?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The judge relents: 'Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.' The judge's motive is purely selfish: 'because this widow troubleth me' (διά γε τὸ παρέχειν μοι κόπον τὴν χήραν ταύτην, dia ge to parechein moi kopon tēn chēran tautēn, because this widow causes me trouble). The phrase 'lest by her continual coming' (ἵνα μὴ εἰς τέλος ἐρχομένη, hina mē eis telos erchomenē, lest coming continually) she 'weary me' (ὑπωπιάζῃ με, hypōpiazē me, literally 'strike me under the eye,' metaphorically 'wear me out'). He grants justice not from righteousness but exhaustion. If even selfish weariness moves an unjust judge, how much more does the Father's love move Him to answer His children's persistent prayers?